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Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

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4 from 67 reviews

  • Author: Chef
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers are a comforting American main course featuring large bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of seasoned ground beef, cooked rice, tomatoes, and melted cheese, all baked to tender perfection. This easy-to-prepare dish makes a perfect family dinner option that combines hearty flavors with wholesome ingredients.

Ingredients

Produce

  • 4 large bell peppers
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Meat

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef

Canned Goods

  • 1 can (14.5 oz / 410 g) diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 cup tomato sauce

Grains

  • 1 cup cooked white rice

Spices & Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Dairy

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking the stuffed peppers.
  2. Prepare Peppers: Cut the tops off the bell peppers and carefully remove the seeds and membranes to create hollow shells for stuffing. Place the peppers upright in a baking dish to keep them stable during baking.
  3. Cook Beef and Onion: Heat a large skillet over medium heat, then add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook for about 6–8 minutes until the beef is browned and the onions have softened.
  4. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, allowing the garlic to release its aroma without burning.
  5. Mix in Tomatoes and Seasonings: Add the drained diced tomatoes, half a cup of tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Cook the mixture for 3–4 minutes to let the flavors meld.
  6. Combine with Rice: Stir in the cooked white rice thoroughly and then remove the skillet from the heat to prevent overcooking.
  7. Stuff Peppers: Spoon the prepared filling evenly into each hollowed bell pepper, packing the mixture gently but firmly.
  8. Add Remaining Sauce: Pour the remaining half-cup of tomato sauce around the peppers in the baking dish to keep them moist during baking.
  9. Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to soften the peppers and heat the filling through.
  10. Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over each stuffed pepper, and bake uncovered for another 10–15 minutes until the cheese has melted and the peppers are tender.
  11. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve warm for a delicious family meal.

Notes

  • Ground turkey or chicken can replace the beef for a leaner protein option.
  • Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for a healthier variation.
  • Add vegetables like corn, black beans, or chopped zucchini to the filling to boost nutrition and texture.
  • For softer peppers, parboil them in boiling water for 3–4 minutes before stuffing and baking.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://kitchenmartha.com/classic-stuffed-bell-peppers-recipe/